High Proof and Higher Spirits: Four Whiskeys, One Wild Ride

In this relaxed and whiskey-rich episode of The Bourbon Road, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter take a well-earned pause from their recent travels and barrel picks to enjoy a night of good conversation and even better pours. Broadcasting from the Bourbon Road Bar in Simpsonville, Kentucky, the duo dives into a curated flight of four whiskeys—two bourbons and two ryes—with a monster of a surprise in the final glass. You'll hear stories of legendary Kentucky moonshine, high-proof adventures, and reflections on the growing bourbon community, including updates on their recent roadie meetups and the much-anticipated debut of the Frankfurt Documentary. There’s even a toast to their “podcast enemies” over at Pursuit United, as Jim and Todd sample the Melwood Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon—a nod to whiskey history and the legacy of George Swearingen and Rudolph Balki. The episode is more than just tasting notes (though there are plenty): it’s about community, history, and the shared appreciation of exceptional spirits. Learn about Melwood Avenue’s historic distilling past, find out what makes the rare 375ml release from Pursuit United so unique, and stick around for insights on upcoming barrel picks, roadie events, and the always vibrant Bourbon on the Banks Festival. And yes, they saved the strongest for last—literally. One of the highest-proof pours ever featured on the show makes a thunderous finish, sparking memories of mason jars, X-marked moonshine, and the kind of burn only true Kentuckians could admire. So pour yourself a generous dram and settle in. This episode is one for the books—and for the bourbon shelves. Bourbon on the Banks 2025 Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars The Hill House Bed and Breakfast  Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!